Alabama Main Street Program

[Southron]

The Alabama Main Street Program is a preservation-based downtown revitalization effort designed for small cities with a population of 50,000 or less. Administered by the Alabama Historical Commission, the program is based on the National Trust for Historic Preservation's successful approach to preservation and economic development of older central business districts. Public and private resources are being brought together to develop creative strategies for revitalization and to build a positive and unified downtown identity.

Alabama cities with programs participating in the statewide network include Alexander City, Anniston, Decatur, Dothan, Eufaula, Florence, Gadsden, Greenville, Mobile (not small, but with an active program), Opelika, Scottsboro, Selma, and Winfield. Thirteen cities isn't nearly enough (more may have been created since the online list was last updated in 2002).

This is a great program that should be fully funded and expanded to include all of our small cities. Unfortunately, the state program is dormant due to a lack of funding. Other Southern states, such as Texas and Georgia, have well-funded and effective programs, and the results can be seen if one visits participating cities in those states. Alabama desperately needs tax reform now so that we can adequately fund vital programs such as this.

Does anyone know if addtional main street programs have been created, or have details about some of the accomplishments of our main street programs?

Links:

• Alabama Main Street Program

• National Trust for Historic Preservation Main Street Center